JP4211234B2 - GAME SERVER DEVICE AND GAME TERMINAL DEVICE - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a service for playing a battle game such as shogi, go, and chess over a network. GAME SERVER DEVICE AND GAME TERMINAL DEVICE About.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, as a system for remotely playing (games) games such as shogi, go, and chess between people at remote locations via communication means such as a telephone line or the Internet, terminals used by the opponents are each networked. There is a network battle system in the form of connecting to a server and using this server as a mediator, or in a peer-to-peer format in which a battle is performed by directly connecting terminals used by the opponent. Various commercial services are in practical use.
[0003]
In addition, since a battle between humans and a computer is performed, a battle program is also in a practical stage, and depending on the type of game, there are many programs that battle better than humans. Techniques such as the Min-Max method, pruning, and evaluation function are used as components of the battle program.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the conventional network battle system is based on the premise that the battle will be established by the opponents from each other from the beginning to the end of the battle. was there.
[0005]
The first problem is that even if emergency use is possible during a match, if you leave the terminal, you may lose time or be dissatisfied with your opponent.
The second problem is that if the opponent who is the loser continues to start without ending even though the game has never won or lost, it must continue to respond to the start. Is to be wasted.
[0006]
The third problem (which can also be regarded as a special case of the second problem) is that when the actual end phase of the game is not necessarily impossible to start following the rule, It is possible that the remaining side can continue to start in anticipation of the opponent's running out of time and the side losing in the board state can win. As a specific example, it is a meaningless continuation after being desperate in shogi, and even if it is insufficient for the minimum number of pieces to win in chess, it keeps pointing, hitting suicide in the opponent's final place in Go The act is equivalent. This is a problem that is likely to occur in a battle game that requires a certain amount of time to operate the terminal, but it is likely to cause troubles between users due to the moral problem that respects cleanliness.
[0007]
Also, as a fourth point (even if it is not a problem), if you are going to a specific battle type in the network battle system, you will need to enter the first step that you have decided. Input automation was not taken into account and the characteristics of the computer system were not utilized to the fullest extent.
[0008]
As described above, in the conventional system, it is necessary to correspond to the opponent from the start of the battle until the end of the battle, and as in the first to fourth problems described above, other than the essential part of the battle There was a risk that it would be a hindrance to the use of network battles.
[0009]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and can reduce the burden on the user by providing a function of performing an operation by a user playing a battle game with an opponent via a communication means. GAME SERVER DEVICE AND GAME TERMINAL DEVICE The purpose is to provide.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention is a game server device used in a game system for causing a plurality of user terminals connected via communication means to perform a battle game, and information for advancing a battle game acquired from the user terminal In accordance with the normal mode processing means for proceeding with the battle game, first storage means for sequentially registering information for proceeding with the battle game edited in advance, and for proceeding with the battle game acquired from the user terminal First information generating means for generating information for advancing the next battle game from the information registered in the first storage means when the information follows the order of information registered in the first storage means; Agent mode processing means for advancing a battle game according to information for advancing the game generated by the first information generation means, and the user terminal According to the present invention, there is provided distribution means for assigning which of the normal mode processing means and the agent mode processing means to advance the battle game according to the setting from the end.
Further, the present invention is a game server device used in a game system for causing a plurality of user terminals connected via communication means to perform a battle game, for advancing a battle game acquired from the user terminal. A normal mode processing means for advancing the battle game according to the information; a second storage means for sequentially registering information acquired from each user terminal in the battle game played in the past; and a battle game acquired from the user terminal. Second information generation for generating information for advancing the next competitive game from the information registered in the second storage means when the information for progress follows the order of information registered in the second storage means And an agent mode processing means for advancing the battle game in accordance with information for advancing the game generated by the second information generating means , Characterized by comprising a distributing means for distributing any depending the progress of the competition game of the agent mode processing means and the normal mode processing means in accordance with the setting from the user terminal.
The present invention also relates to a game terminal device that plays a battle game with another game terminal device connected via a communication means, and a normal mode processing means that advances the battle game based on information input from a user; , First storage means in which information for advancing a battle game that has been pre-edited is registered in order, and information for advancing a battle game acquired from the other game terminal device is registered in the first storage means The first information generating means for generating information for advancing the next competitive game from the information registered in the first storage means, and the first information generating means Agent mode processing means for advancing the battle game according to information for advancing the game, and the normal mode processing means for the setting in the game terminal device A distribution unit that distributes which of the agent mode processing units causes the battle game to proceed, and a transmission unit that transmits information for proceeding with the game selected by the distribution unit by the communication unit. And
The present invention also relates to a game terminal device that plays a battle game with another game terminal device connected via a communication means, and a normal mode processing means that advances the battle game based on information input from a user; Second storage means in which information for advancing a game in a battle game played in the past is registered in order, and information for advancing a battle game acquired from the other game terminal device is registered in the second storage means The second information generating means for generating information for advancing the next battle game from the information registered in the second storage means, and the second information generating means Agent mode processing means for advancing the battle game according to information for advancing the game, and the normal mode processing according to the setting in the game terminal device A distribution unit that distributes whether the battle game is to be advanced by the agent mode processing unit; and a transmission unit that transmits information for advancing the game selected by the distribution unit by the communication unit. It is characterized by.
[0011]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a network battle system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, user terminals 10 (user terminals 10-1 and 10-2) are connected to a host device 16 via a public network 14, and include a shogi, a go, a chess, and the like provided by the host device 16. It is possible to receive various services in addition to a battle service that allows the player to play (games) with an opponent through a communication line. The user terminal 10 is configured as a dedicated terminal (matching game device) for playing a shogi game with an opponent via a communication line, for example, and can play a shogi game or the like via the host device 16. Of course, it is possible to realize the same function as the user terminal 10 of the game dedicated terminal by executing the game program (matching program) by a personal computer or a PDA (personal digital assistant). Hereinafter, a case of playing a shogi game will be described as an example. The public network 14 is a packet switching network, and for example, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is used.
[0012]
As shown in FIG. 1, the user terminal 10 includes a memory 20, a CPU 21, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 22, a touch panel 23, and a modem 24, which are connected to each other via an I / F circuit.
[0013]
The memory 20 stores various control programs executed by the CPU 21, data, and the like, and includes various data in addition to a game program and a communication control program for realizing a shogi game. In addition to the memory 20, the user terminal 10 can also be provided with a magnetic or optical recording medium on which a program, data, etc. are recorded, or a recording medium composed of a semiconductor memory. The recording medium is fixedly provided in the recording apparatus or is detachably mounted. The program, data, etc. recorded on the recording medium may be received and recorded from other devices connected via a communication line, etc. A recording apparatus having a recording medium may be provided on the device side, and the program and data recorded on the recording medium may be used via a communication line.
[0014]
The CPU 21 realizes various functions according to various control programs and data stored in the memory 20, and realizes a game for playing a game such as a shogi game and a function for executing communication. In the user terminal 10 according to the present embodiment, when a game is played, the game is executed when a request from the user or the game is in a specific state in addition to the normal mode in which the game is played by information input from the user. An agent mode (thinking agent mode, fixed agent mode, and tracing agent mode) is prepared in which the game progresses without input of information from the user by a prepared start selection algorithm.
[0015]
The LCD 22 displays various information necessary for playing the shogi game. The basic function buttons such as the shogi board surface, connection button, game request button, and end button, and the game game operation mode (normal mode, agent) (Switch mode) for switching the mode, and information such as the number and time elapsed.
[0016]
The touch panel 23 is used for designating a position where a button for defining an operation on the terminal and a piece during the execution of a shogi game are to be placed.
The touch panel 23 and the LCD 22 are configured to be a laminated integrated type and constitute a display input unit, and by directly specifying an object displayed on the LCD 22 with a pen or the like, corresponding coordinate data is input. Can do.
The modem 24 is for performing communication via the public network 14, and dials up to the host device 16 when there is a connection request for performing a battle.
The game program stored in the memory 20 of the user terminal 10 is event-driven by an operation on the touch panel 23 and a game partner's start information command received from the modem 24. When an event that the connection button is touched is detected, the modem 24 dials up to the host device 16 to establish a data link. When an event that the area on the shogi board surface is touched is detected, the start coordinates are calculated from the touched points, and the start coordinates are displayed on the corresponding points on the LCD 22 based on the coordinate data. Data is sent as a start information command to the modem 24 and transmitted to the host device 16 through the modem 24. Further, when an event occurs in which the modem 24 receives a start information command from the opponent user terminal 10, start coordinate data (frame code) is acquired from the start information, and the start of the opponent is displayed at a corresponding point on the LCD 22. . When another function button is touched, the corresponding command character string is sent to the host device 16.
[0017]
As shown in FIG. 1, the host device 16 includes a server device 30 (communication game device) and an access router 34. The server device 30 provides various services to the user terminal 10 connected via the public network 14. For example, the server device 30 controls various games of the shogi game between the terminals and various information related to the game (win / lose record, (Provide the level and score). The access router 34 is for connecting the server device 30 and the user terminal 10 via the public network 14 and is connected by TCP (transmission control protocol) / IP (internet protocol) and Ethernet (registered trademark).
[0018]
The server device 30 is configured by a computer that reads a program recorded in various recording media and whose operation is controlled by the read program, and includes a CPU 40, a memory 41, a recording device 42, and an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface. (I / F) 43 are connected to each other via a bus.
[0019]
The CPU 40 realizes various functions according to various control programs and data stored in the memory 41, and realizes a battle service such as a shogi game by executing a game program (match program). In the present embodiment, the operation mode according to the request from the user received from the user terminal 10, that is, the normal mode in which the game is progressed by information input from the user, and the start information using the start automatic selection algorithm Is generated by calculation to execute processing in an agent mode (including a thinking agent mode, a fixed agent mode, and a trace agent mode) in which a game is advanced. In thinking agent mode, when it was determined that the game was actually over, the winner's time (remaining time until the limit) was less than the predetermined value (the meaningless start that expected the player to run out of time was continued) If the waiting time has expired, it is determined that the game will be performed on behalf of the game and the start automatic selection module will immediately start the game without consuming time. This is a mode to allow a normal end to prevent it from happening. In the fixed agent mode, if you edit and prepare the fixed time procedure in advance, while the opponent starts to follow the fixed time procedure, the game automatically proceeds according to the fixed time procedure, and the specified fixed number procedure is completed, This mode returns to the normal mode when the opponent chooses to start out of the routine procedure. The trace agent mode is valid from the beginning or at the specified point in time, and while proceeding in the same procedure as the previous recording procedure (especially when playing continuously with the same opponent), the previous winner side (the first and second players are replaced) This is a mode that automatically advances the game by the same start as the previous time, and returns to the normal mode when the loser selects a different start from the previous time.
[0020]
The Ethernet (registered trademark) I / F 43 is an interface for connecting to the access router 34.
[0021]
The memory 41 stores various control programs executed by the CPU 40, data, and the like, and includes a game program (corresponding to each of the normal mode and the agent mode) for providing a battle service, a communication control program, and the like. Various data such as a start information command (game information) transmitted and received between the user terminals 10 playing the game and situation state data representing the game situation are stored. Details of the start information command and the situation state data will be described later (FIGS. 2 and 3).
[0022]
The recording device 42 stores, in addition to various programs 42a executed by the CPU 40, a user database 42b and a fixed database 42c used for a battle service. Details of the user database 42b and the fixed database 42c will be described later (FIGS. 4 and 5). Note that the recording device 42 is provided with a recording medium composed of a magnetic or optical recording medium, a semiconductor memory, or the like. The recording medium is fixedly provided in the recording apparatus or is detachably mounted. The program, data, etc. recorded on the recording medium may be received and recorded from other devices connected via a communication line, etc. A recording apparatus having a recording medium may be provided on the device side, and the program and data recorded on the recording medium may be used via a communication line.
[0023]
FIG. 2 shows an example of a structure of the start information command transmitted / received between the user terminals 10 playing the game. As shown in FIG. 2, the start information command includes horizontal coordinate and vertical coordinate data indicating the start position on the board, a piece code indicating which piece is to be started, and other additional information. ing.
[0024]
For example, in the shogi game, “7 6 steps” (step code = 1) is represented by (7, 6, 1, 0). When there is information that cannot be expressed only by the start coordinates and the piece code, the additional information is written in the bit field. For example, when the most significant bit = 1, it indicates “termination” (at this time, the coordinate data and the piece code are meaningless, so anything may be used), or other bits with the same code using shogi In order to distinguish when can move to the same coordinates, right and left are used.
[0025]
FIG. 3 shows an example of a state (board surface) state data structure for managing the game situation in the server device 30. As shown in FIG. 3, the situation state data includes each of the user numbers 10 on the side of the user number 10 side (first move / rear move) and the grid of the board surface (9 × 9). Lattice information (frame code indicating the type of frame, affiliation code indicating which side belongs to the front or back) of the frame started on the frame ([0] [0] to [8] [8] ), The piece information about the piece to be held (a piece code indicating the type of the piece to be held, an affiliation code indicating to which side of the front piece or the rear piece the piece belongs) ([0] to [38]).
[0026]
For example, when the value of the grid information [7] [7] is (1, 0), there is a piece of piece code 1 (“walk”) and belonging 0 (first piece) at a point on the board surface 77. Represents. Here, when “76 steps”, (7, 6, 1, 0) is started as the first move, “steps” moved from 77 to 76, so the lattice information [7] The value of [7] is updated to (0, 0) and the value of lattice information [7] [6] is updated to (1, 0) (frame code 0 represents empty).
[0027]
FIG. 4 shows an example of the record structure of the user database 42b (DB) stored in the recording device 42. The user database 42b is for registering information about users who use the battle service for each user. A user ID (integer) for identifying the user and a game of the user (user terminal) Rating value (integer) indicating the strength of the file (third storage means), flag for use of the fixed database indicating whether or not the fixed agent mode is enabled (binary value), whether or not the trace agent mode is enabled Last game trace flag (binary value), last win / loss (first win, second win, draw), and the previous game score (up to 30 in this case) 0] to [29]) (second storage means), average start required time (total start time, total number of samples) ([0] to [3]). Of the fields in the user database 42b, the structure of the previous game score is obtained by connecting the start information in order from the start. The average time required for starting (array [0] to [3]) is information for representing a consumption time trend required by the user (user terminal 10) to proceed with the battle game, and the remaining time is 10 If there are more than minutes, if the remaining time is 5-10 minutes, if the remaining time is 3-5 minutes, if the remaining time is less than 3 minutes, it is divided into 4 stages, The table shows the relationship between the remaining time and the average consumption time for each hand. The average start time can be calculated by (total start time / total number of samples). In the previous game score [0] to [29], 0, 2, 4... Indicates the start of the first move, and 1, 3, 5. Only 30 hands are recorded from the beginning.
[0028]
FIG. 5 shows an example of the record structure of the fixed database 42 c (DB) stored in the recording device 42. The fixed database 42c (first storage means) is information in which information for advancing a battle game that has been edited and configured in advance is registered in order, that is, a fixed line start is registered in order, and each record includes As shown in FIG. 5, serial number (integer), self-start information (structure consisting of start coordinate data and piece code), opponent start information ac (each start information structure), and subsequent serial number fields ac Each integer). If the record in which the same start information as that of the start is registered is selected in the fixed database 42c and the start information from the opponent is one of the three types in the start information a to c, the opponent start By searching for the record of the serial number indicated by the subsequent serial number field corresponding to, the self-starter can be automatically selected. For example, it is assumed that the information representing the fixed mark registered in the fixed mark database 42c is information edited by the user's operation or typical existing information. When the subsequent serial number reaches 0, the subsequent procedure is not recorded in the fixed-name database 42c, that is, the fixed-number end is indicated.
[0029]
A serial number (J) is set for each record stored in the trace database 42c, and the serial number (J) is 1 for the first run, 2 for the first run (2nd), 0 for the end, and 3 for other numbers. Set appropriately so as not to. It should be noted that the self-start information of the first record in the subsequent number is not referred to (the reference is meaningless). Further, it is not necessary to set the opponent start information corresponding to the subsequent serial number 0 (in order to end the fixed time even when the hand is not in the opponent start a to c).
[0030]
For example, if there is a record “3 4 steps” and “8 4 steps” for the first move “7 6 steps”, the corresponding record values are (1, (7, 6, 1, 0), (3,4). , 1, 0), 10, (8, 4, 1, 0,), 20, (0, 0, 0, 0), 0,). In the record of serial number 10, a self-start for “3 four steps” is registered, and in the record of serial number 20, a self-start for “8 four steps” is registered.
[0031]
Next, the operation of the network battle system in this embodiment will be described.
First, an outline of an operation in the user terminal 10 (user terminals 10-1 and 10-2) will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.
The user operates the user terminal 10 by touching the touch panel 23. The CPU 21 of the user terminal 10 drives an event according to a program recorded in the memory 20 in response to an operation on the touch panel 23 and reception of a start information command of the opponent from the modem 24.
[0032]
When the event that the connection button is touched is detected, the modem 24 dials up to the host device 16 to establish a data link with the host device 16 via the public network 14 (step A2). Further, when it is detected that the game request button has been touched, the host device 16 assigns a game partner and the game starts (step A3). The CPU 21 displays the game board on the LCD 22. The first and second moves are decided, and the move is sent by touching the surface of the terminal from the first player.
[0033]
When detecting an event that the area on the shogi board surface is touched, the CPU 21 calculates the start coordinates from the touched point, displays its start (piece) at the corresponding point on the LCD 22, and starts the start coordinates. The information command is transmitted to the host device 16 through the modem 24. When another button is touched, the CPU 21 transmits a corresponding command to the host device 16. On the other hand, when an event for receiving a start information command is generated by the modem 24, the CPU 21 obtains the opponent's start coordinate and piece code from the start information command, and based on this, the opponent's start (piece) is assigned to the corresponding point on the LCD 22. To display.
[0034]
In the user terminal 10 in the present embodiment, when performing a game through the host device 16, the fixed agent mode or the trace agent mode can be set by an operation on the mode setting button from the user (step A1). In this case, the user terminal 10 performs registration of the setting mode when connected to the host device 16 so that the battle can proceed without requiring the user to start the setting mode. In addition, when the content of the battle is substantially decided to win (final state), the user sets the thinking agent mode by operating the thinking agent mode switching button (step A4), and the rest The game can be advanced without consuming time. The user terminal 10 notifies the host device 16 that the thinking agent mode has been set (step A5), and the battle is advanced in this setting mode. Note that the thinking agent mode can be canceled at an arbitrary timing desired by the user by operating the thinking agent mode switching button again. The thinking agent mode is automatically set when the remaining time is less than a predetermined value determined in advance in the final state, for example, when the remaining time is less than 10 seconds.
[0035]
Next, an outline of the operation in the server device 30 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Here, description will be made assuming that the server device 30 mediates a game performed between the user terminal 10-1 and the user terminal 10-2.
[0036]
The server device 30 waits for reception of a connection request packet for a specific TCP port number of TCP / IP, and activates the server main process as a child process each time there is a connection request to process the connection (steps B1 and B2). . Accordingly, the server device 30 can process a plurality of connections in parallel. The connection is maintained until the user terminal 10 is disconnected, and each child process continues during that time. In the following description, processing for the user terminal 10-1 will be mainly described.
[0037]
The processing contents of the child process that processes the connection can be configured as follows.
The child process repeatedly reads and interprets the command received from the TCP / IP socket for the user terminal 10-1 with which the connection has been established, and the other party (user terminal 10-2) received from the inter-process communication channel. Read and interpret commands from the side. Further, the child process can use the inter-process communication channel that is realized by the shared memory space and can be input and output as a one-to-one bidirectional stream by specifying the inter-process communication channel ID number.
[0038]
The game request command received from the TCP / IP socket includes a user ID. When a game request command is received, the user database 42b is searched using the user ID as a key, and the game status field of the corresponding user record (hereinafter referred to as user record UR) is updated to 1 (during game participation inquiry). . Subsequently, a user record UR having a game status of 2 (waiting for a game partner) is searched, a user corresponding to the user record UR found first is selected as a game partner, and an empty inter-process communication channel ID is acquired. Both the user record UR and the user record UR of the opponent are updated to the inter-process communication channel ID obtained by acquiring the inter-process communication channel ID in the game status field 3 (in-game). At this time, the first and second moves are determined by random numbers. When the record of the opponent is not found, the player status field of the user record UR is updated to 2 (waiting for opponent). In addition, when it is not in any of the above-described states (after the game is ended, for example), it is assumed that the game status is set to 4.
[0039]
The contents of the user record UR obtained from the user database 42b are copied into the local work memory and used for reference to each process described below. Further, the setting mode is registered by the pre-game process executed before the game is started (step B3). That is, the fixed agent mode or the trace agent mode is validated according to the setting of the agent mode in the user terminal 10-1. As for the trace agent mode, is the previous game trace flag (agent mode setting) of the user record UR obtained from the user database 42b true, and whether he / she is the first player and the previous winner is the first player Or the trace agent mode is activated when the player is in the back and the previous winner is in the back. The thinking agent mode is disabled at the initial stage. Each mode is managed by providing a flag in the local working memory for each child process.
[0040]
Hereinafter, the command received from the user terminal 10-1 is identified, and an event corresponding to the identification result is executed. In the partner start reception process (steps B4 and B5) that is executed when it is not self-start (start on the user terminal 10-2 side), partner start determination process (FIG. 8), self-start process distribution process (FIG. 9), Various processes such as a fixed agent process (FIG. 10), a trace agent process (FIG. 11), a thinking agent process (FIG. 12), and a final post-process (FIG. 14) are executed. Further, in the self-start reception process (steps B4 and B6) executed in the case of a self-start, the self-side start confirmation process (FIG. 11), the final post-process (FIG. 14), and the start automatic selection process (FIGS. 15 and 1)
Various processes such as 7) are executed. Details of each process will be described later.
[0041]
First, the partner start reception process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
The server device 30 processes the start information command from the other party only when the game status field of the user record UR is 3 (during game) (step C1). When the server device 30 receives a start information command from the opponent in the inter-process communication channel, the server device 30 executes a partner start determination process (step C2), and the same contents are stored in the TCP / IP socket (in the user terminal 10-2). Send out (step C3). Thereby, it becomes possible to display the start of the opponent in the user terminal 10-2. Then, in order to determine the start corresponding to the opponent opponent's start, a self-start process distribution process is executed (step C4).
[0042]
Here, the details of the partner start determination process (step C2) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
If the start information command received from the opponent does not indicate completion (step E1), the server device 30 updates the phase state data according to the contents of the start information (step E4), and further ends by this opponent start. In order to determine whether or not a state is reached, an end determination process is executed (step E5). In the final determination process, the final state determination module substantially sets the final state (a state in which winning or losing is determined by normal start) based on the data registered in the situation state data. It is determined whether or not.
[0043]
The final state determination module is configured according to each rule depending on the type of game, and how much determination can be made varies. Here, as an example of the simplest configuration, one example effective in the case of chess is described. The only piece remaining on the board of one player car is King, and the other player is other than King on the board. If either Queen or Rook remains in the list (except for the case where King can immediately take the Rook), the means for determining this can be clearly configured. The player is determined to be “virtually a loser” and the other is determined to be “a virtual winner”. Although it is possible to go further in the rules, players who are only King can not win no matter how much they point, and it can be considered that there is virtually no possibility of a draw between skilled players (It is possible to construct a method with a wider determination range, but the explanation is simplified here).
[0044]
As a result of the end station determination process, when it is determined that the station is in the end state, the end state is set (effectively the flag E = 1 indicating the end is set. In other cases, E = 0 (Step E6), the variable N representing the current number is updated (+1) (Step E7). Then, the partner start is displayed on the user terminal 10-1 (step E8).
On the other hand, when the start information command from the opponent of the game indicates termination (step E1), the server device 30 executes the winning time process.
[0045]
In the winning time process, a rating increment (r: difference in rating value) is calculated in order to update the rating value of the corresponding user record UR in the user database 42b according to winning the game (step E2). The rating value is referred to when the start is automatically determined in the agent mode regardless of the user's operation, and represents the level of the user's strength with respect to the game. In other words, by raising the rating value according to the winning of the game, the level (repulsive force) of the agent can be increased so as to be linked to the strength of the user against the game. Therefore, the user can get a sense of accomplishment as the agent becomes stronger with him.
[0046]
For example, the increase in rating is calculated by 16 + 0.04 × (rating value of opponent of the player−rating value of the user). As a method for calculating the rating value, other methods can be used as long as the level of strength can be expressed according to the win or loss of the game.
[0047]
Further, the server device 30 calculates the increment of the rating value, and then executes post-end processing (step E3).
[0048]
FIG. 14 shows a flowchart for the operation of the final post-processing. In the final post-processing, first, the rating increase (r) calculated in step E2 is added to the current rating value stored in the rating value field of the corresponding user record UR (step L1).
[0049]
Also, the contents of the previous win / loss field and the previous game record field of the user record UR are replaced with those of the current game (step L2), and the game status is updated to 4 to indicate that the game has ended. (Step L3). The server device 30 updates the user database 42b with the updated user record UR. Note that when the start in the thinking agent mode is not used, the average start time of the user record UR is also updated in the self-side start reception process described later.
[0050]
On the other hand, the self-handling process distribution process (step C4) is executed as shown in the flowchart shown in FIG. The server device 30 distributes whether the next start is determined by the agent mode or the user inputs the start by the self-start process distribution process.
That is, when any one of the fixed agent mode, the trace agent mode, or the thinking agent mode is activated (steps D1, D3, and D5), the agent process of the activated mode is executed and the user is executed. Instead, the start is determined (steps D2, D4, D6).
[0051]
On the other hand, if none of the agent modes is activated, the server device 30 displays a message “please start input” to prompt the user to perform a start operation on the user terminal 10-1. (Step D7) In order to measure the time required to start, start time timer timing is started (Step D8). Thus, the time required for starting is counted for each start, and the remaining time is limited by gradually subtracting from the predetermined holding time.
[0052]
Next, processing in each agent mode will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.
First, the fixed agent process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0053]
First, the server device 30 acquires a record of serial number J registered in the fixed database 42c (hereinafter, fixed record JR) and stores it in the memory 41. As an initial value of the serial number J, 1 is set in the case of the front number and 2 in the case of the back number in the pre-processing before the start of the game.
[0054]
Here, if the serial number J is 1, that is, the serial number corresponding to the first mover, the self-start is determined to be the start indicated by the self-start information of the fixed record JR (step F13), and the self-side start determination process Is executed (step F14). The details of the self-side start determination process will be described later (FIG. 11).
[0055]
On the other hand, if the serial number J is not 1, that is, if it is not the serial number corresponding to the first mover, it is determined whether the opponent's start with respect to the own start corresponds to any of the opponent start information ac of the fixed record JR (step) F3). Here, when the opponent start corresponds to the opponent start information a of the fixed record JR, the subsequent serial number a associated with the opponent start information a is set to the serial number J (step F4). On the other hand, when the partner start corresponds to the partner start information b of the fixed record JR, the subsequent serial number b associated with the partner start information b is set to the serial number J (step F5), and when the partner start information corresponds to the partner start information c, The subsequent serial number c associated with the partner start information c is set to the serial number J (step F6). If the opponent's start does not correspond to any of the opponent's start information a to c, the serial number J is set to 0 to invalidate the fixed agent mode, assuming that the opponent has started to deviate from the fixed line. Set (step F7).
[0056]
If the value of the serial number J is 0 (step F8), the fixed agent is invalidated (step F9). Then, in order to notify the user that the scheduled agent mode has ended in the user terminal 10-1, a message of “end of fixed schedule” is displayed (step F10), and the user is prompted to perform an input operation for the next start. For this purpose, a message “Please enter the start” is displayed (step F11), and the start time timer is started to measure the time required for the start (step F12).
[0057]
If the value of the serial number J is not 0, the self-start is determined to be the start indicated by the self-start information of the fixed record JR (step F13), and the self-side start determination process is executed (step F14). In other words, when the opponent starts a match indicated by the opponent start information registered in the fixed record record JR, the start indicated by the corresponding self start information registered in the identification record record JR is set as the self start.
[0058]
When the scheduled agent process is executed in the next self-starting process distribution process, the fixed record having the subsequent serial number set in steps F4 to F7 is acquired and the same process as described above is executed. Therefore, in the agent process, when the opponent shows the start indicated by the opponent start information registered in the fixed record, it is possible to deal with the match by using the fixed start corresponding to the start as the start.
[0059]
In this way, by using the scheduled agent mode, when proceeding as scheduled in the beginning of the game, etc., the game is delegated by the scheduled agent so that the user does not need to perform an operation for starting. be able to.
[0060]
Here, the self-side start determination process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0061]
When the game status field of the user record UR is 3 (during game play) (step K1) and the start does not indicate completion (step K2), the server device 30 determines the situation state data according to the content of the start information. Is updated (step K5), and the variable N representing the current number is updated (+1) (step K6). Then, the start information command received from the TCP / IP socket (user terminal 10-1) is transferred to the interprocess channel (user terminal 10-2) as it is (step K6), and at the user terminal 10-1. In order to allow the user to easily check the start update, the start update confirmation display is displayed (step K8).
[0062]
On the other hand, when the start indicates termination (step K2), the server device 30 executes a loss process.
[0063]
In the loss process, a rating decrease (r: rating value difference) is calculated in order to update the rating value of the corresponding user record UR in the user database 42b in accordance with the loss of the game (step K3). Since the rating value represents the level of the user's strength against the game, the agent's level (repulsive force) is lowered in accordance with the strength of the user's game by increasing the rating value according to the loss of the game. be able to.
[0064]
For example, it is assumed that the increase in rating is calculated by 16 + 0.04 × (rating value of user−rating value of opponent). As for the calculation method of the rating value, other methods can be used as long as the level of strength can be expressed according to the winning or losing of the game in the same way as the winning time process.
[0065]
In addition, the server device 30 calculates a decrease in the rating value, and then executes post-end processing (step K4). As described above, the post-end post-process is executed according to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0066]
Next, the trace agent process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0067]
First, when the current number N is 0 (step G1), that is, in the case of the first turn, the server device 30 self-starts the previous game score [0] registered in the user record UR of the user database 42b. Is set (step G2), and the self-side start determination process is executed (step G3).
[0068]
Further, the server device 30 has a current number N of less than 30 in which the previous game record has been registered in the user record UR, and the immediately preceding game partner's start is the previous game record [N-1] (step) G4), that is, when the game has been started in accordance with the previous game record registered in the user record UR, the previous game record [N] registered in the user record UR in the user database 42b is set as a self-start. (Step G5), self-side start confirmation processing is executed (Step G6).
[0069]
On the other hand, if neither of the conditions in steps G1 and G4 is applicable, the server device 30 invalidates the trace agent (step G7), and the user has confirmed that the trace agent mode has ended in the user terminal 10-1. In order to notify the user, a “trace end” message is displayed (step G8), and a “input start” message is displayed to prompt the user to input the next start (step G9). In order to measure the time required for the start, the start time timer is started (step G10).
[0070]
In this way, by using the trace agent mode, in the case of proceeding in the same way as when winning the previous game, the trace agent can be used to act on the basis of the previous game score. Therefore, the operation for starting by the user can be made unnecessary.
[0071]
Next, the thinking agent process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0072]
First, the server device 30 refers to the rating value of the user record UR, and determines whether this rating value is larger than a preset reference value used for level determination (step H1). Here, for example, the level indicated by the rating value is determined by setting the reference value as 1600. If the reference value exceeds 1600, level 3 is set (step H2), and if the reference value is 1600 or less, level 2 is set (step H3). The level set here is used in the automatic start selection process described later. Further, the remaining time t (seconds) of the user at the present time is calculated (step H4).
[0073]
Here, the server device 30 starts the automatic start selection process by the automatic start selection module, and determines the next self-start by using the current situation state data as an input (step H5).
[0074]
FIG. 15 shows a flowchart of the automatic start selection process. In the automatic start selection process, the next phase when the next phase is started from the phase indicated by the current phase status data is considered as a possible start (all starts are possible, but processing efficiency is limited to powerful start) And a next phase set consisting of the plurality of next phases is generated (step M1).
[0075]
Further, for each next phase included in the next phase set, the next phase when the next phase is started next is obtained for each possible start, and a next phase set consisting of these multiple next phases is generated. (Step M2).
[0076]
Here, it is determined whether the level obtained based on the rating value of the user in the thinking agent process exceeds level 2, that is, whether the user's strength against the game is higher than a predetermined level (step M3).
[0077]
If the level 2 is exceeded, then for each successive phase included in the successive phase set, the next phase when the next phase is started from the next phase is obtained for each possible start, and these multiple A set of phases consisting of successive phases is generated (step M4).
[0078]
FIG. 16 is a tree structure conceptually showing how a set of phases is generated as described above. FIG. 16 shows a tree structure corresponding to level 2, in which the next phases 1 to N are generated for the current phase, and the next phase is generated for each of the next phases 1 to N (for the next phase 1). Then, aspects 1, 1 to 1 and N are generated one after another). In this way, it is determined by thinking agent processing by changing the depth of reading of the thinking agent (that is, strength) in accordance with the level of the user's rating value (the actual level of strength of the user's game). The starting strength can be made as strong as when the user actually starts.
[0079]
The server device 30 searches the tree structure from a set of phases generated according to the user's rating value to a certain depth while pruning with an evaluation function of a predetermined phase, and similarly uses the Min-Max method with the evaluation function. Apply to select the foremost procedure (one path in the tree) (step M5), set the first step of the foremost procedure as a return value (start determined by the thinking agent) (step M6), and return to the thinking agent processing .
[0080]
In the start automatic selection process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15, a set of phases up to a depth corresponding to the level of the user is generated, but a long processing time is required to generate a set of phases up to a necessary depth. When the processing load is large, such as necessary, the time for generating the set of phases may be limited.
[0081]
FIG. 17 shows a flowchart of the start automatic selection process in which the time w for generating the set of phases is limited. In this case, in the automatic start selection process, the next phase set, the next phase set, etc., in order, within a depth level obtained based on the user's rating value until a predetermined time w elapses. Are generated (steps N1 and N2).
[0082]
When a predetermined time w (seconds) elapses, the generation of the phase set is generated at that time even if the phase set up to the depth level obtained based on the rating value of the user has not been generated. 15 is completed, and the foremost procedure is selected by applying the Min-Max method (step N3) in the same manner as in steps M5 and M6 of the start automatic selection process shown in the flowchart of FIG. This is set as a start to be determined by the thinking agent (step N4).
[0083]
Here, in the thinking agent process, the waiting time (w seconds) until the start information command is sent to the opponent according to the remaining time t and the average start required time [0] to [3] of the user record UR. Is calculated. That is, in the average start required time [0] to [3], when the remaining time is 10 minutes or more, when the remaining time is 5 to 10 minutes, when the remaining time is 3 to 5 minutes, the remaining time is 3 Since the average start time of the user when less than a minute is registered, the user is actually playing by setting the average required time according to the remaining time t to be the time required for the local start You can elapse time as well.
[0084]
However, if the remaining time t is less than 10 seconds and the flag indicating the end of the event is set (E = 1), the waiting time w is set to 0 (no waiting time) (step H7). ). As a result, even if the opponent who is actually defeated can respond to aiming to win by time out, it will proceed without consuming the remaining time, so it will time out the game that is effectively winning You can avoid losing.
[0085]
If the remaining time t is less than 180 seconds, the waiting time w is the time registered in the average start required time [3] of the user record UR (the user's time when the remaining time is less than 3 minutes). (Average start time) is set (step H8).
[0086]
If the remaining time t is less than 300 seconds, the waiting time w is the time registered in the average start required time [2] of the user record UR (use when the remaining time is less than 3 to 5 minutes). (Average start time of the person) (step H9).
[0087]
If the remaining time t is less than 600 seconds, the waiting time w is the time registered in the average start required time [1] of the user record UR (use when the remaining time is less than 5 to 10 minutes). (Average start time of the person) (step H10).
[0088]
When the remaining time t is 600 seconds or more, the waiting time w is the time registered in the average start required time [0] of the user record UR (the user's time when the remaining time is 10 minutes or more). (Average start time) is set (step H11).
[0089]
The server device 30 waits for w seconds in accordance with the waiting time w set in any one of the processes of Steps H7 to H11 (Step H12), and then determines by the automatic start selection process by executing its own start determination process. The start information command for the start is transmitted to the inter-process channel (other party) (step H13).
[0090]
In this way, by using the thinking agent mode, the game is acted on behalf of the game determined by the automatic start selection process (module) at any timing during the game, and no operation for the user to start is required. It can be. In the user terminal 10-1 of the user, the start determined by the start automatic selection process is transmitted from the host device 16 and only the situation state is displayed. In the automatic start selection process, the depth of reading is changed according to the rating value indicating the strength of the user's game, and the time required for the average start time when the user actually plays is consumed from time to time Therefore, using the thinking agent mode does not give the opponent a sense of injustice.
[0091]
Next, the self-side start reception process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0092]
The server device 30 processes the start information command from the user terminal 10-1 (user) only when the game status field of the user record UR is 3 (during game) (step J1).
[0093]
Set the time u (seconds) required to start from the start time timer timing to the start (when the start information command is received) (Step J2), and wait for the remaining user based on this time u The time t (second) is updated (step J3).
[0094]
Here, the average start required time [0] to [3] of the user record UR is updated according to the remaining waiting time t.
For example, when the remaining waiting time t is less than 180 seconds, the start time u is added to the total start time of the average start time [3] of the user record UR, and 1 is added to the total number of samples. (Step J5).
[0095]
In addition, when the remaining waiting time t is less than 300 seconds, the start time u is added to the total start time of the average start time [2] of the user record UR, and 1 is added to the total number of samples. (Step J6).
[0096]
In addition, when the remaining waiting time t is less than 600 seconds, the start time u is added to the total start time of the average start time [1] of the user record UR, and 1 is added to the total number of samples. (Step J7).
[0097]
In addition, when the remaining waiting time t is less than 600 seconds, the start time u is added to the total start time [0] of the average start time [0] of the user record UR, and 1 is added to the total number of samples. (Step J8).
[0098]
Then, the received start information command is set to the own start (step J9), and the above-described own start determination process (FIG. 11) is executed (step J10).
[0099]
In this way, in the local start reception process, when the user starts the game in the thinking agent mode by updating the average start time based on the time required for the actual start of the user, the user actually It is possible to control so that time is consumed in the same manner as when playing a game.
[0100]
Thus, by playing using the agent mode, the user can continue playing even if he / she is away from the user terminal 10 during the game (without inputting information). Even if you do not lose, you will not feel uncomfortable with your opponent. In addition, even if you do not leave the user terminal 10 during the game, if you want to start regularly, such as when you start the same as the previous game or when you follow a fixed schedule, By embarking on the trace agent and fixed-line agent, you can save yourself the trouble of inputting simple information.
[0101]
In addition, when the thinking agent mode is used, the start is determined according to the level of strength of the user, so that the use of the thinking agent can be imparted with a sense of fairness and impartiality, and the player has won the game. Since the thinking agent becomes stronger by leaving the mark, a sense of achievement can be provided. In addition, in the start in the thinking agent mode, the time spent also depends on the time spent when the user actually plays (average start use time). It is also possible to prevent an unnatural early pointing and backward pointing due to the agent acting on behalf of the player. Furthermore, by using the thinking agent mode, the time required for terminal operation (operation to input start information) is used to bring the opponent to the end of the time, and it is not possible to win the game even though it is virtually lost on the end board. The frequency of natural phenomena can be reduced. This is particularly effective when the time is running out (the usage time through the game is limited by the sum and the minimum time per hand is not secured).
[0102]
In the above description, in the thinking agent mode, it is described that the starting is determined by the thinking agent and the game is progressed. However, not all startings are automatically advanced, each starting or predetermined The user may be asked to confirm the start that matches the above condition, and when there is an approval response, the game may be advanced by this start. At this time, when a confirmation is requested from the user, if there is no response within a predetermined time (during timeout), it may be determined that the user has been approved.
[0103]
In the above description, in the fixed agent mode, the fixed procedure is described from the beginning. However, the fixed agent may be used for starting from the middle of the game. For example, in the case of Go, the scheduled agent may be activated when a pattern on a part of the board surface matches a fixed pattern (fixed stone) pattern in the middle of the game.
[0104]
Further, the fixed database 42c, the final state determination module, and the start automatic selection module may be provided in the user terminal 10 instead of being provided in the host device 16. As a result, part or all of each agent process can be processed by the user terminal 10.
[0105]
In the above description, the previous game record registered in the user record UR of the user database 42b is only one game record. However, a plurality of game records performed in the past may be registered. For example, all the games played in the past may be registered and used for the trace agent processing. In that case, it may be configured in a tree structure (graph structure) similarly to the fixed database 42c.
[0106]
In addition, the final state determination may be performed by prefetching, or may be performed using ground determination when the game is Go.
[0107]
Further, instead of providing a battle service by a single server device 30, a function of providing a battle service by providing a plurality of server devices 30 may be distributed and executed.
In the system configuration shown in FIG. 1, the user terminal 10 and the public network 14 are connected by wire, but packet communication is performed using a wireless telephone network such as a personal handyphone system (PHS) network or a mobile phone network. The structure which performs this may be sufficient.
In addition, the method described in the above-described embodiment is applied to a recording medium such as a magnetic disk (flexible disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), a semiconductor memory, etc. as a program that can be executed by a computer. It can be written and provided to various devices. It is also possible to transmit to a variety of devices by transmitting via a communication medium. A computer that implements this apparatus reads the program recorded on the recording medium or receives the program via the communication medium, and the operation is controlled by this program, thereby executing the above-described processing.
[0108]
Further, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. Further, the functions of the above-described embodiments may be combined as appropriate as possible. The above-described embodiments include various stages of the invention, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. For example, even if several constituent requirements are deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the embodiment, an effect can be obtained, so that a configuration from which the constituent requirements are deleted can be extracted as an invention.
[0109]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, by providing a function of performing an operation by a user playing a battle game with an opponent via a communication means, users participating in the battle game battle each other from the beginning to the end of the battle. Since it is not necessary to meet the other party, the burden on the user can be reduced, and it is possible to improve the convenience and feeling of use for the user.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a network battle system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a structure of a start information command.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a structure of situation (board surface) state data.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a record structure of a user database 42b.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a record structure of a fixed-name database 42c.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an outline of operations in the user terminal 10 and the server device 30 in the present embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining partner start reception processing;
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining details of partner start determination processing (step C2).
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining self-handling process distribution processing;
FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a scheduled agent process.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining own-side start determination processing;
FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining trace agent processing;
FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining thinking agent processing;
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of post-end processing.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of automatic start selection processing;
FIG. 16 is a diagram of a tree structure conceptually showing how a set of aspects is generated.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of automatic start selection processing in which a time w for generating a phase set is limited.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining own-side start reception processing;
[Explanation of symbols]
10-1, 10-2 ... User terminal
14 ... Public network
16: Host device
20 ... Memory
21 ... CPU
22 ... LCD
23 ... Touch panel
24 ... modem
30 ... Server device
34 ... Router
40 ... CPU
41 ... Memory
42 ... Recording device
43 ... Ethernet (registered trademark) I / F
44 ... Line control unit
44a ... Line I / F
44b ... Switch part
44c ... Voice response unit

Claims (6)

A game server device used in a game system for causing a plurality of user terminals connected via communication means to perform a battle game,
Normal mode processing means for advancing a battle game according to information for advancing the battle game acquired from the user terminal;
First storage means in which information for advancing a pre-edited battle game is registered in order;
When the information for advancing the battle game acquired from the user terminal follows the order of the information registered in the first storage means, the next battle game is advanced from the information registered in the first storage means First information generating means for generating information for
Agent mode processing means for advancing the battle game according to information for advancing the game generated by the first information generation means;
A game server device comprising: a distribution unit that distributes whether the battle game is to be advanced by either the normal mode processing unit or the agent mode processing unit in accordance with a setting from the user terminal. A game server device used in a game system for causing a plurality of user terminals connected via communication means to perform a battle game,
Normal mode processing means for advancing a battle game according to information for advancing the battle game acquired from the user terminal;
Second storage means in which information acquired from each user terminal in a battle game performed in the past is registered in order;
When the information for advancing the battle game acquired from the user terminal follows the order of the information registered in the second storage means, the next battle game is advanced from the information registered in the second storage means Second information generating means for generating information for
Agent mode processing means for advancing a battle game according to information for advancing the game generated by the second information generation means;
A game server device comprising: a distribution unit that distributes whether the battle game is to be advanced by either the normal mode processing unit or the agent mode processing unit in accordance with a setting from the user terminal. A timing means for timing the time required for the user to proceed with the game;
Based on the time measured by the time measuring means, comprising time registration means for registering the consumption time trend required by the user to advance the battle game,
The agent mode processing means, in generating the information for advancing the competition game, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that time-consuming depending on the time consumed time trend registered by the time registration means Game server device. A game terminal device for playing a battle game with another game terminal device connected via a communication means,
Normal mode processing means for advancing the battle game based on information input from the user;
First storage means in which information for advancing a pre-edited battle game is registered in order;
When the information for advancing the battle game acquired from the other game terminal device follows the order of the information registered in the first storage means, the next battle game is determined from the information registered in the first storage means. First information generating means for generating information for progress;
Agent mode processing means for advancing the battle game according to information for advancing the game generated by the first information generation means;
A distribution unit that distributes whether the battle game is advanced by either the normal mode processing unit or the agent mode processing unit according to the setting in the game terminal device;
A game terminal apparatus comprising: a transmission unit configured to transmit, by the communication unit, information for proceeding with the game selected by the distribution unit. A game terminal device for playing a battle game with another game terminal device connected via a communication means,
Normal mode processing means for advancing the battle game based on information input from the user;
Second storage means in which information for advancing a game in a battle game performed in the past is registered in order;
When the information for advancing the battle game acquired from the other game terminal device follows the order of the information registered in the second storage means, the next battle game is determined from the information registered in the second storage means. Second information generating means for generating information for progress;
Agent mode processing means for advancing a battle game according to information for advancing the game generated by the second information generation means;
A distribution unit that distributes whether the battle game is advanced by either the normal mode processing unit or the agent mode processing unit according to the setting in the game terminal device;
A game terminal apparatus comprising: a transmission unit configured to transmit, by the communication unit, information for proceeding with the game selected by the distribution unit. A timing means for timing the time required for the user to proceed with the game;
Based on the time measured by the time measuring means, comprising time registration means for registering the consumption time trend required by the user to advance the battle game,
The agent mode processing means, in generating the information for advancing the competition game, according to claim 4 also 5, characterized in that time-consuming depending on the time consumed time trend registered by the time registration means Game terminal device.

Images